About Us

Manuela smiling in the water as a dolphin gently kisses her on the shoulder.

Manuela with dolphin

Manuela and Rainer smiling in the clear, turquoise water, with a tropical landscape in the background.

Manuela and Rainer

Rainer smiling in the turquoise water, wearing sunglasses, with a tropical background.

Rainer

A Warm Welcome!

We are Manuela and Rainer Lutz, your hosts here in the beautiful Dominican Republic. Manuela is a passionate gymnastics instructor and an experienced entrepreneur. Rainer has his roots in gastronomy as well as in web development, marketing, and web design.

In 2019, we felt it was time for a new chapter in our lives. We fell head over heels in love with the Dominican Republic and immediately knew: this is our new home!

Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench into our plans. Our emigration had to be put on hold temporarily. But we did not get discouraged. Now we are finally here and couldn’t be happier.

Our Story

Originally from Austria, we decided to turn our backs on the dreary life situation in Europe and emigrate to the Dominican Republic. Our decision was well thought out and came after months of research, planning, and preparation. We overcame numerous challenges, from bureaucratic hurdles to cultural differences. But every effort was worth it. Today, we are proud to be part of this wonderful community and would love to share our experiences and knowledge with others.

Life in Juan Dolio

Plate of freshly prepared shrimp, accompanied by vegetables and spices, served in a restaurant.

Fantastic food!

Artist at an open-air studio working on a maritime-themed painting, surrounded by paint cans.

Amazing artists!

Manuela and Rainer taking a selfie at a lively event (karaoke) with colorful lights.

Great vibes!

Group of people at a festive outdoor event with balloons and drinks.

Family feeling!

Beach view from Playa Hemingway with clear skies, waves, palm trees, and a typical building.

Playa Hemingway!

Pool area at Restaurant El Currican, surrounded by palm trees and sunshades.

Restaurant pool!

Life here in Juan Dolio feels like a permanent vacation. The sun almost always shines, the people are friendly, and the sea is simply breathtaking. Daily life here is relaxed but never boring. There are plenty of attractions, from beautiful beaches to historical sites. The local culture is a fascinating blend of native and foreign influences, reflected in the music, food, and festivals. Whether you are a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys life’s simple pleasures, Juan Dolio has something for everyone.

Contact

If you would like to learn more about us or become part of this wonderful community, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are also active on various social media platforms – follow us for the latest updates and exciting stories from our life here in the Dominican Republic!